Lawas Airport (LWY)

Lawas Airport (LWY) is a vital Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) facility situated in the Limbang Division of Sarawak, Malaysia, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Lawas town center. Serving as a critical aviation link for this geographically isolated district—which is bordered by Sabah, Brunei, and Indonesia—the airport provides essential connectivity through Rural Air Services (RAS) operated by MASwings. Its current 758-meter bitumen runway is designed for light turboprop aircraft like the DHC-6 Twin Otter, facilitating frequent daily hops to regional hubs such as Miri and Kota Kinabalu. The existing passenger terminal is a compact, single-story structure that manages all regional arrivals and departures with high efficiency. Facilities inside are focused on essential traveler needs, featuring dedicated check-in counters, a small waiting lounge, and basic baggage claim services. While amenities are modest, the terminal houses a small refreshment kiosk offering local snacks and beverages. However, the current airfield is situated in a precarious 'river bend' location less than 400 meters from the Lawas River, making it highly susceptible to seasonal flooding and land corrosion which frequently impacts flight schedules and airfield safety. To address these long-standing operational challenges, a major RM 600 million relocation project is currently underway to replace the existing STOLport with a modern regional airport in the Sundar area. Scheduled for completion by late 2026, the new facility will feature a significantly longer 1,500-meter runway, allowing Lawas to accommodate larger ATR 72-600 aircraft for the first time. Ground transportation to and from the current terminal is straightforward, with local taxis providing a swift 5-minute commute into town. Travelers are advised to remain mindful of weather conditions during the monsoon season, as the airport's low-lying position often necessitates temporary closures until the new high-ground facility becomes operational.